Catalog Archive
Auction 183, Lot 32

Chart Depicting Tycho Brahe's Model of the Universe

"Planisphaerium Braheum, sive Structura Mundi Totius, ex Hypothesi Tychonis Brahei in Plano Delineata", Cellarius/Schenk & Valck

Subject: Solar System

Period: 1708 (published)

Publication: Atlas Coelestis seu Harmonia Macrocosmica

Color: Hand Color

Size:
19.7 x 15.8 inches
50 x 40.1 cm
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A handsome chart depicting Tycho Brahe's model of the universe. Brahe, a Danish nobleman and astronomer, proposed a unique system of the universe based on the philosophical reasonings of the Ptolemaic system and the geometrical reasonings of the Copernican system. In Brahe's geo-heliocentric system, the sun and the moon orbited the earth, while the remaining planets revolved around the sun. This chart depicts Brahe's model encircled by the twelve signs of the zodiac. The drape-style title cartouche is held aloft by putti, while below astronomers and their students study celestial and terrestrial globes bearing numerous instruments. Tycho Brahe's portrait appears at bottom right, with his famous Uraniborg observatory on the island of Hven in Oresund behind him. Third state with the imprint of Valck & Schenk in the title.

References: Kanas, p. 191-94; Van der Krogt (Vol. I) #HM06:1.

Condition: A

Excellent impression with lovely, old color, backed in linen with minor marginal soiling.

Estimate: $1,600 - $1,900

Sold for: $2,300

Closed on 6/9/2021

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